Sports - Elite Athletes with a Disability (EAD)

For the first time in the Games history, indeed at any multi-sport event in the world, a number of events for Elite Athletes with a Disability (EAD) were included in a fully inclusive Sports Programme in Manchester 2002. 20 countries sent both male and female athletes to compete in 10 events across 5 different sports; Athletics, Lawn Bowls, Swimming, Table Tennis and Weightlifting.

The CGF and International Paralympic Committee (IPC) have since established a list of 4 core sports for EADs; Athletics, Lawn Bowls, Powerlifting and Swimming. Events from up to 3 optional sports can also be chosen by the host city; Cycling (Track), Table Tennis and Wheelchair Basketball. Not more than 15 events across all sports will be included on the Programme.